01/04/2008
Anne summoned the 60 Minute Makeover team to her house in Upminster, Essex, so she could surprise her husband, Bob, and their triplets, Kate, Guy and Marcus.
Their triplets were all born prematurely at 24 weeks and, as a result, have various special needs. Bob devotes every minute of his time to his children and never leaves any time for himself. Anne’s brother is also disabled and Bob has taken it upon himself to look after him as well. The family have been through a tough two years, and Anne thinks it’s time to let Bob know how much she cares and how thankful she is for all his help and support
The designer: Kathryn Rayward
The funky and feisty Kathryn Rayward had some magical designs up her sleeve, ready to put the ‘wow’ factor back in to this house.
Living room
This room used to be a muddle of colours, textures and furniture. The dining table was squashed in at the end and the room’s size wasn’t being used to its best advantage. With a quick lick of paint, some new furniture and a creative touch, this room has turned in a funky and cosy living space.
Kathryn has taken Anne’s love of the art deco period on board, and chosen some stunning antique pieces for this room. Villa Nova’s ‘Gatsby Barley’ wallpaper really emphasises this theme as well as keeping the room neutral. Chocolate brown paint under the dado rail grounds the room and ties in the wallpaper to the neutral carpet. Bright blue end walls lift the colour scheme and help create depth and light in the room. The sofas are now placed either side of the fireplace to give the room a focal point as well as making better use of the space. Two fantastic and original murals add some style and colour to the room.
Dining room
This room used to be an extra area for the family to chill out in but had no style or real purpose. So Kathryn has turned this in to the dining room, to allow the living room to flourish as a relaxing space, and to create a space with its own identity as a dining room.
The stunning peacock feather curtains mirror those in the living room, helping to bring the feeling of length and size in to the room. A glass dining table and white faux-leather chairs are perfect for reflecting the light brought in by the two huge windows.
Master bedroom
This room was in tatters. The carpet did not fit properly and the window area was empty. It felt cold and uninspiring, not somewhere Anne and Bob could really get excited about.
With a little TLC and a flash of colour, this room has been transformed in to a colonial paradise. Solid, plank-style furniture from Indigo gives the room an earthy and organic feel. The wild wallpaper is bold and daring but by using it on only one wall, it gives enough zest with out going OTT! Dress curtains either side of the bay window add colour, warmth and interest to a difficult space. A raspberry accent colour in the fabric and accessories gives a modern take on a classic theme.
Kate’s room
Kate’s room was perfect for a child, not a young woman. The pine furniture looked cheap and the huge wardrobes drowned the room. It needed brining up to date and turning in to a funky and beautiful boudoir.
White furniture immediately brings in light, class and style. Beautiful textured wallpaper from Brewers creates interest and adds colour to the room. The stunning, printed, black and white blind is a work of art in itself. It looks great, adds a feature to the room and goes well with the pink, black and white theme.
